East Timor Projects

Since 2003, Christian College Geelong - our staff, students and their families and friends - have been actively involved in supporting this young nation.

Early in our involvement, we made a decision, under the leadership of College Chairman Mr Howard Williams, to form a long-term relationship with the people of East Timor. Initially, the College was involved in the provision and transport of dairy calves, which could thrive in a tropical climate, as well as the establishment of a dairy farm in Fuiloro, East Timor.

The Australia Timor-Leste Friendship Network - http://austimorfn.com/ designated links between the Geelong region and the township of Viqueque, which was located south of Dili. In September 2004, the City of Greater Geelong formalised a close relationship with the District of Viqueque by signing of a Memorandum of Understanding in Timor Leste.

The relationship between Christian College families and the people of Viqueque has proved to be extremely rewarding for both groups. After discussions with the local officials and village chiefs, and with the help of a number of work parties, the early establishment of 'The Friendship House' in the area of Beloi, Viqueque proved to be a catalyst for the establishment of our ongoing programs.

Having somewhere for our work parties to sleep when we visited East Timor, as well as a centre for locals in the community to meet and work, provided a natural focal point for future planning. This house is called 'Uma Maun Alin' (which means"'the house of the little brother and little sister"). Other groups are also welcome to visit the Friendship House to talk to local staff and see the programs operating there. For further information, or to book and stay at the facilities, please email vqqfriends@ccg.vic.edu.au.

Since 2003, the College working committee, our staff members, students, families and friends have jointly raised approximately $20,000 AUD each year. This money has all been directly used for projects in Viqueque and the surrounding region.

Projects In Viqueque

2004

A volunteer work party helped local schools. Volunteers from Uma Maun Alin painted school walls and fixed the chairs and doors. Christian College Geelong supplied the materials to assist this program. The library building at SMA Liceu was renovated and a new roof was supplied.

A Women’s Sewing Group began. Two groups of women use the sewing room in Uma Maun Alin. One group was supported by the Alola Foundation. The other group is supported by Christian College Geelong. Both groups sew school uniforms and other official uniforms. Bags and baby’s clothing are also made.

2005

Students from Viqueque visited Geelong for the first time and attended Christian College Geelong Senior School classes. The students were accommodated with College families for three months.

Tank water was provided for the community in Beobe in Sucker Oan, and water taps were renovated in Luca Oan.

Maria Alves was employed as the first Liaison Officer.

The First group of Christian College students visited Viqueque in March.

The First teacher-to-teacher seminar was held in September.

2006

A Soccer field was constructed at Uma Kiik in the community of Beobe.

Creados independence fighters visited Geelong in April 2006. Then College Chairman, Howard Williams, found three surviving creados and organised for their visit to Australia to coincide with ANZAC Day celebrations.

2007

Assistance to the Viqueque Hospital was given. Materials such as nurse’s pouches (including fob watches and scissors), beds/sheets, mosquito nets, babies’ clothes and a set of baby scales have proved to be invaluable contributions.

New schools were planned at Talibelanda and Kraras. Christian College Geelong was approached to help support the building of these schools. They received permission from the Department of Education to proceed. The building of Kraras began in 2008. Students attended the official opening.

A Christian College staff member was an observer at the 2007 East Timor Parliamentary elections. (Another committee member was an observer for the 2012 elections)

2008

Mosquito nets were provided to the local orphanage. Christian College students also knitted blankets.

2009

A visit from Christian College Geelong to organise contractors to build the new school at Kraras took place. The school was officially opened in July 2010. Christian College Senior School students participated in the opening.

2010

The Kindergarten commenced at Uma Maun Alin. In January 2010, a teacher was employed to run the Kindergarten and he was assisted by four volunteers (Juliana, Nurlinda, Venancia and Lucia).

Approximately 30 children attend the kindergarten every day.

Basic English classes commenced for local children in the afternoons. Classes were held at Uma Maun Alin.

Computer classes were introduced. Certificates are awarded after completion of a three-month course.

A Christian College delegate represented the Geelong Viqueque friendship group at the international conference: ‘Haforza Relasaun Amizade / Strengthening Friendship Workshop’ in Maubisse in August 2010.

2011

Uma Maun Alin Kindergarten thrives under the direction of three teachers: Nurlinda, Lucia and Venancia.

A Visit from Christian College Geelong to organise contractors to build the new school at Raitahau occurs.

A Tertiary scholarship program commenced for four suitable candidates, from two senior high schools in Viqueque.

Four Timorese teaching staff from the 'Friendship House' trained and mentored in Australia for two months.

2012

Kindergarten teachers are now qualified in their own area of study (Psychology, English/teaching and Accounting).

Scholarship program expanded to eight students. All students selected attend universities in Dili.

Teacher training for Viqueque Kindergarten staff continued in Australia

Raitahau Primary School new building was officially opened in July 2012. Christian College students were officially involved.

A motorbike was purchased and delivered to Kraras Primary School to enable teaching staff to drive to work (instead of walking an hour each way).

Friends and Sponsors of Viqueque Projects

Christian College Geelong greatly appreciates the support of all sponsors and individuals who have volunteered to take part in work parties in East Timor. We value all who have supported the College goals in helping the people of Viqueque.

You may wish to make a secure online donation (Paypal Link) to the fund which supports the following ongoing programs in East Timor:

Building projects

Fundraiser calendar advertising

Scholarship program

Employment of local staff in Viqueque

You may also wish to contact Christian College to speak to a member of the East Timor Friendship Committee